Asia – Bong Yatra – Journey that Never Endshttp://bongyatra.com
When you are thinking to Travel, then be a part of this great travel blog.Fri, 07 Dec 2018 18:54:29 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=5.0.1114434485Top 5 Things about Uzbekistan that Every Traveller Looks Forward Tohttp://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-about-uzbekistan-that-every-traveller-looks-forward-to
http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-about-uzbekistan-that-every-traveller-looks-forward-to#respondTue, 20 Feb 2018 14:41:35 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=2060The Republic of Uzbekistan as it is renowned for is a place emitting some exotic aura of the Islamic religion. With landlocked from almost all the sides with Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan and a bit of the Aral Sea’s shoreline on a part this place can undoubtedly be featured under those few places which do not get hype but is so worth visiting. The enigma of this place is reserved for certain places but the best are the following.

Taste a smidgen of the Silk Road:

We all have gone through more a glimpse of the Silk Road in our history books and the details included adorned citadels, sparkling towers, enticing domes and what not. The routes to the Silk Road includes Uzbekistan as one of the main city, and its glory is still affixed to its lanes and turns. One can easily arrange a whole week’s trip to visit all the snippets of it. In fact, the capital city of Uzbekistan, namely, Tashkent which was formerly ravaged by an earthquake in 1966 was again rebuilt and restructured to its exact form by the Soviet muscles, one can never miss that

Revisiting the 12th century:

To all those times when your mind quenched for going back to the days of history, it just deserved a place like Khiva which is a quintessence of a living museum. Presently under UNESCO’s protection, this place is still inhabited by the Uzbek families and local tourists. One can find themselves deepened in the maze of the mausoleums, gaudy mosques, and madrassas founded in as before as 6th century. In fact, throwing a wedding party in the midst of that gorgeous place will be nothing less than a dream.

Heaven for shoppers:

Uzbekistan is a paradise when it comes to acquisition of authentic silk cloth, handmade ceramics, and miniature paintings. The mosques are bedecked with murals and mosaics, and the engravings are mainly based on Persia. Just a few dollars can make your life fulfilled by bringing home those finest materials of art.

Appetizers will be quite happening:

Heard it right, for most parts of Uzbekistan namely Bukhara, Tashkent have tasted like the Europeans. Which means you can actually grab a beer like UzCarlsberg sit in a lakeside garden and sip. Or a landscaped public park next to any tourist spot, and engage in incessant green teas. Delicacies have it like a lagman, a generous bowl of lamb soup with thick local noodles, and delectable black cumin and chives.

Women are guarded:

Truly, Uzbekistan is a place where women travellers are safe. Equality comparatively prevails here, for women are majorly Muslim here and a slight offence just needs a “No” as a reply for it to stop. Crime reports are also relatively low which states an assurance for all the women travellers out there.

Uzbekistan generally does not get a name while mapping out the favoured places. But now the game has changed and it is quite a happening place.

]]>http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-about-uzbekistan-that-every-traveller-looks-forward-to/feed02060Russia Welcomes You with the Tastiest Cuisine Ever!http://bongyatra.com/russia-welcomes-you-with-the-tastiest-cuisine-ever
http://bongyatra.com/russia-welcomes-you-with-the-tastiest-cuisine-ever#respondSat, 17 Feb 2018 16:21:42 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=2052“Moscow”, cried the couple. Just like crazy foodies and travel enthusiasts, this couple also made a plan to visit some faraway place to celebrate their holidays. Tasting new cuisines, indulging in cooking Russian idiosyncratic foods is what they had ever wanted. Russia, which is the world’s biggest nation, can definitely be called out as a biggie in terms of its culture, cuisine, and what not. A saving must be allotted for visiting this place once in our life. Just like these foodies, the world is rising up the percentage of well cooked food too. Why not just check out the top rated, renowned dishes that Russia offers.

Borsch/Borscht:

Lounging in a -30°C in Moscow will be deficient if this cabbage and beet red soup do not accompany you. Tinged with the famous Smetana, sometimes with meat, and potato and herbs always, with the delicious garlic bread or rye bread – this soup is mouth-watering. Normally served as a starter, this soup will make you crave for more. Forgot to add the cheesy toppings above it.

Russian Pancakes:

Not at all the usual pancakes but a Blini are contributed with buckwheat fillings for savoury fillings, or white flour for the sweet tooth factor. Embellished with smoked salmon, sour cream, creamy mushrooms, to name a few – the posh ones are compiled of red salmon or sturgeon caviars. The cottage cheese versions are called syrniki, which are upgraded and condensed form of the ricotta-pancakes which are stapled breakfasts.

Russian Salad:

Though many of us have tried this in our individual home countries that is more of a salad flooded with mayonnaise whereas the authentic Russian ones are that of crunchy because of the mingling of cucumbers and pickles, though the base consisting of diced potatoes, peas, eggs is ever-present.

Russian Dumplings:

Momo alert! Yes, Russia is a place where you’ll get hold of dumplings namely Pelmeni, compiled of appetizing herbs along with fragments of lamb, pork, or beef and the slender dough is to die for. Preferences have it that you may eat it boiled or in a broth – Choice is yours!

Shashlik/Shashlyik:

Basically, you’re from India and missing North-Indian Kebabs. Russia is a hub for everything as we told, yes, they do have roasted meats/lam/pork to go crazy for. Russian pickles, spicy tomato sauce do the marinating part over the chunkier mains. Already hungry?

Smoked Salmon/Salted herring:

Something is fishy! Yes, the salmons and herrings are fishy. Even way tastier because Russia is the core of fishes and saltwater creatures, and not consuming fish is literally next to prosecution. Just kidding! Served with either pancake in case of smoked salmon or herrings with salad, a classic name of it is “herring under a fur coat” or Shuba which offers grated vegetables like beet, onions topped with mayonnaise.

Stroganoff:

Ever tasted something that is sour but tastes heavenly? Stroganoff is the one. Cooked with the famous sour cream of Russia, accompanied with mushroom which is another gem found in pied in Russia. This creamy and made with hunting or gaming meats, you will want to try it more than once.

Honeycake:

Thin layers of 5-15 placed in a vertical manner, in a much-elaborated style, medovik is a slim cake. This cake’s uniqueness is because of the scattered crushed sponge or nuts and left to be imbibed overnight and then the morning will be full of glee.

So now we have reached the saturation point, and your stomach is craving for food. Why not go out save some money and book the next tickets to Moscow? Good food is calling you!

]]>http://bongyatra.com/russia-welcomes-you-with-the-tastiest-cuisine-ever/feed02052Leave Your Footprint in the Land of Russiahttp://bongyatra.com/leave-your-footprint-in-the-land-of-russia
http://bongyatra.com/leave-your-footprint-in-the-land-of-russia#respondWed, 14 Feb 2018 00:00:02 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=2048Russia is the largest country on earth. For every travel lover, it is a dream destination. It is one of the most beautiful and important countries in history. With its rich cultural past and some of the greatest wonders of nature, Russia really stands out as a country. If you miss Russia in your in your world tour then you will miss a big time. There are numerous things that need to be looked at. Russia gives you a combination of both the beauty of nature as well as the beauty of man-made landmarks. Whether you like spending time in the mountains, or lakes or by going through history, you will find every aspect of indulgent that your soul craves. It is as exotic as one can imagine, even more in fact. So, let us talk about some of the major tourist spots of Russia.

Saint Basil’s Cathedral:-

Situated in Moscow, the Saint Basil’s Cathedral is famous for its extraordinary architecture. There are eight churches surrounded by a central massive church. The cathedral is now a museum and attracts tourists from all over the world all year round. Its open for visitors from 11:00 am to 17:00 pm every day except Tuesday. The massive landmark was built in the year 1952.

Hermitage Museum:-

This one is located in the Saint Petersburg. The second largest in the world and one of the greatest museums of Russia that houses some of the most primitive and magnificent works of art and culture. It was built in 1964. As far as its collection is concerned, only a few are kept on display. The museum consists of six buildings and you can wander through the artworks until you are lost.

Suzdal City:-

If you are a romantic and love history, this place is made for your soul feeding. One of the oldest cities of Russia that has been preserved over the years. This place houses some of the oldest buildings in the country, dating back to 1024. It is a living example of the cultural history of Russia. This town will take you right back in time.

Lake Baikal:-

We all have read about this one in our geography books. Lake Baikal is one of the eminent wonders of nature. It’s the largest as well as the cleanest freshwater lakes of the world.it contains about 20% of the world’s fresh water. With multiple resorts around it, it makes a famous tourist spot and accommodation. It is also the oldest lake of the earth.

Valley of Geysers:-

Another element of wonder and astonishment. Hot waters spring emerging between mountains. As rare as it sounds, Valley of Geysers is the second largest geyser fields in the world and is situated in the Kamchatka peninsula. There are about ninety springs situated in this region. A lot of tourists stop here while their journey through Trans-Siberian railway. If you love nature, then you are ought to be mesmerised by this exotic place.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are various other places that deserve a special mention like the city of Kremlin, Mount Elbruz, trans-Siberian railway and the list goes on. Kremlin itself houses some of the major monuments of Russia. A thorough tour to Russia will satisfy your soul and fill your heart with its rich culture and history. A nation as big it has much more to offer than what can be expressed in mere words. After all, travelling is all about the experience. To know how it is really like, you have to live the larger than life experience.

]]>http://bongyatra.com/leave-your-footprint-in-the-land-of-russia/feed02048Top 5 Things to See In Japanhttp://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-japan
http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-japan#respondMon, 05 Feb 2018 00:00:35 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1989Japan is probably one of the coolest countries in the world. They have their own unique culture that they are completely absorbed in, their language, their music, and their clothes. The lifestyle of the Japanese people is the main attraction to the country of cherry blossoms.

If you plan on visiting Japan, learning the language at least at the conversational level would be convenient since hardly any regular Japanese people know English. And of course, a visit to Japan requires you to be aware of all the sights and scenery that the country has to offer. While there are many must-visit places, I will mention the top 5 which you should not miss no matter what and they will definitely make your trip to Japan memorable.

1- The Tokyo Skytree

This television broadcasting tower serves as the landmark of the city of Tokyo. It stands 634 meters tall and is the tallest structure in the country of Japan while being the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion. There are observation decks on the tower which offer a magnificent view of Tokyo city to the tourists.

2- Tokyo Disney Sea

The theme park which is worth 335 billion yen is located in the city of Tokyo and includes seven themed areas. The entrance has the Mediterranean Harbor which includes naturally themed ports as well such as American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast and Mysterious Island.

It ranks number 5 in the worldwide ranking system.

3- Kiyomizu-Dera

It’s a Buddhist temple located in Kyoto. The temple is a part of UNESCO world heritage site. The temple consists of the main hall with a large veranda which is supported by pillars and offers beautiful scenery of the city. The temple includes various others shrines as well. It stands as one of the 21 finalists in the 2007 list for the Seven Wonders of the World. The beauty and the calmness of the place are the main attractions and it offers a hint to the traditional Japanese culture.

4- Tokyo Imperial Palace

The Palace stands as the residential area of Japan’s Imperial family. The palace stands as one of the most wonderful sights worth seeing. It has a fascinating history which speaks of its destruction during World War II and later it was rebuilt in the same manner and style. There is a famous Eyeglass Bridge within the palace grounds which is renowned for its good looks. The inner grounds of the palace are generally not open to the common public. The only two days when they are made available to common masses is on January 2nd for New Year’s Greetings and December 23rd which is the Emperor’s birth date.

The Imperial Palace East Gardens are opened for everyone to visit.

5- Roppongi

If you’re going to Japan, don’t just keep yourself restricted to their history and shrines. The nightlife of Japan is worth seeing and it comes to life in Roppongi. It stands as one of the most happening places in Tokyo and is filled with a bunch of foreigner-friendly bars and clubs. Roppongi is the face of the latest redevelopment projects namely Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown which changed the face of the district. It also contains the National Art Center which stands as the largest art museum in Japan.

In your visit to Japan, make sure to keep these places on the top of your to-do list. The country has many beauties to offer, ranging from its historic traditions to its glamorous lifestyle. All you have to do is sit back and explore the exotic culture of Japan.

]]>http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-japan/feed01989Top 5 Food Dishes in South Koreahttp://bongyatra.com/top-5-food-dishes-in-south-korea
http://bongyatra.com/top-5-food-dishes-in-south-korea#respondFri, 02 Feb 2018 00:00:41 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1985We all have known about Korea from various sources. Generally highlighted when technology and Atom/hydrogen bomb is being discussed. While the southern half is famous for the technology and innovation the other half is infamous for a few obvious reasons.

But, in the recent years, apart from technology people have started visiting South Korea to try it’s traditional food dishes which have gained popularity worldwide.

Here are a few dishes which I feel are must try for every tourist:

Kimchi (Fermented Vegetable) 김치

‎For Koreans, Kimchi is more than just a dish, it reminds them of their cultural heritage. The origin of kimchi dates back at least to the early period of the Three Kingdoms. Kimchi is a spicy and sour dish made up of fermented vegetables. It is prepared with various kinds of ingredients; the most common prime ingredient is cabbage.

Apart from being delicious, it is popular for its nutritious values too, high fiber content and low-calorie content makes it a must for Koreans and the visitors.

To all the enthusiastic chefs, do see the video below. We won’t mind if you call us someday.

Bulgogi (Marinated Beef Barbecue) 불고기

Calling all beef lovers. A juicy, savory dish of grilled marinated beef, ranked as the 23rd most delicious food in the world. grilling with garlic and sliced onions adds awesome flavor to the dish. The meat is usually wrapped in lettuce and it is also traditionally eaten with ssamjang (a thick, red spicy paste).

Hoeddeok (Sweet Syrupy Pancakes) 호떡

Want something sweeter than the pancake? Hoeddeok, or sometimes spelled as hotteok is a popular Korean street food served especially during the winter season. It is essentially flat, circular dough that is filled with a mixture of cinnamon, honey, brown sugar, and small pieces of peanut and cooked on a griddle. This delicacy has crunchy exterior and soft interior as well as an irresistible flavor.

Visiting a new country means trying new dishes. A traditional hot Korean soup made from ox bones, ox meat and briskets, seolleongtang is a local dish of Seoul, tastes delicious when seasoned with salt, ground black pepper, chopped green onions. The broth is of a milky white, cloudy color and is often eaten with rice. Seolleongtang is known for its soft yet chewy texture and flavorful broth. Any South Korean restaurant would have it on their” most recommended dishes” list.

Beware of one thing, if by chance you land up in Northern Korea this list will be pointless. Don’t be afraid if you are served with bullets and bombs, we haven’t tried them yet. Do let us know, if, by chance, you get to taste it.

]]>http://bongyatra.com/top-5-food-dishes-in-south-korea/feed01985Top 5 Things to Eat in Chinahttp://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-eat-in-china
http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-eat-in-china#respondWed, 31 Jan 2018 06:08:21 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1981While dumplings and noodles are what everyone thinks of when talking about Chinese food, but Chinese cuisine is far more assorted than that. China consumes the most diverse form of veggies and meats. Each province has its unique understanding of food and shares some commonalities with the neighbor provinces.

Here’s a list of Top 5 Chinese dishes which you can get your hands on when you visit the country next time.

Hong Shao Rou (红烧肉)

Red braised pork belly or hong shao rou is a classic pork dish from mainland China. It is believed to be one of Chairman Mao’s favorite dishes. The sweet, spicy, sticky, tender dish has a melt in the mouth texture. It is best served over a bed of white rice and vegetables. Tender cubes of pork belly lightly stir-fried, covered in a thickened, spiced and sweetened soy sauce which looks red in color makes it more appetizing. The dish is particularly eaten in Shanghai and Hunan provinces.

Pidan/Century egg(皮蛋)

Century egg is a Chinese preserved delicacy dating back centuries to the Ming Dynasty, made by preserving duck, chicken or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice hulls for a long time. The eggs can be eaten without further preparation, on their own or as a side dish. Traditionally the eggs were pickled in brine and then buried in a mixture of chalk, coal, mud, and clay.

In Taiwan, it is popular to eat century eggs by slicing it and placing on top of cold tofu along with other garnishes.

Xiaolongbao(小笼包)

Xiaolongbao is a hot soup filled dumpling renowned all over the Shanghai province and various parts of China. The dumplings comprise delicious soup with a stuffing of meat or veggies. The popular and most common variant is filled with pork and minced crab meat. More modern variants include other meats, seafood, and vegetarian fillings.

One need to puncture the dumpling wrapper to let out the steam and then have the soup slowly before eating the meaty xiaolongbao. Mostly people savour them with fresh ginger and tangy dark vinegar. In restaurants, you can also find them served alongside a bowl of clear soup.

Chou Doufu/Stinky tofu (臭豆腐)

Chou Doufu is a Chinese form of fermented tofu. There are a few styles in which Chou Doufu is served and each tastes distinct, like, deep-fried, in a hot pot, on a skewer, etc.

Usually, on the streets, chou doufu is deep fried and then served with a sauce. It is crunchy on the outside but soft and juicy on the inside. Sometimes it is stuck on bamboo skewers and grilled over charcoal. The sauce and garnishes it is served with are specific to the place you buy it from. One can say that it is a form of a ‘stinky cheese’ such as blue cheese.

Dragon’s beard candy (龙须糖)

Dragon’s Beard Candy is a traditional Chinese sweet made with sugar and maltose syrup. Its appearance resembles that of a white cocoon or pillow. Sugar is stretched into super thin strands and filled with either crushed peanut or roasted sesame seeds mixed with sugar. When eaten, the soft wispy strands melt in the mouth and the sweet crushed peanuts add the crunchiness. It is believed that the strands reminded the Chinese Emperor of a dragon’s beard, so thus it was named as Dragon’s Beard Candy. The candy was initially created in China, but soon became popular and spread to other parts of East Asia in various forms.

Chinese cuisines incorporate a number of diverse spices, meats, and veggies. While one can feel a sense of unease when trying a fried scorpion, he can surely find multiple other options to satiate the hunger pangs.

The possibilities of discovering a new type of food in China are endless!

The People’s Republic of China is the land of Kung Fu and adorable pandas. The Chinese civilization has endured through millennia of tumultuous upheaval and revolutions is now seen as one of the major economic powers in the world. Laden with the rich heritage and modernizing at a fast pace, the China of today and yesterday has many aspects to be seen.

Let’s see the Top 5 Things to see in China which will leave you awe-inspired.

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, situated to the north of the historical Tiananmen Square, is a palace complex in central Beijing, China. The city was the former seat of Imperial Chinese Dragon Throne from the Ming dynasty to the end of the Qing dynasty from the years 1420 to 1912. Designed to be the center of the ancient walled city of Beijing, The Forbidden City was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987 and now houses the Palace Museum.

UNESCO listed it as the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world. The palace epitomizes splendid Chinese palatial architecture of the gone by years.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

In Sichuan, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the best possible site for rearing and breeding of giant pandas. Created and imitated as their natural habitat, a great number of plants and bamboos are cultivated here to provide for the animals’ diet and habitat. Adored and loved by people all over the world the giant pandas are found only in Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu provinces.

The Centre houses three main exhibitions named Giant Panda Hall, the Butterfly Hall, and the Vertebrate Hall. Cute red pandas can also be seen roaming freely in the lush green ambiance of the center.

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications stretching approximately 21,196 kilometers along an east-to-west line across the historical northern borders of China. It is one of the famous attractions all around the world and has been a part of 7 wonders of the world. It was constructed to protect the Chinese states and empires against the raids and invasions of the various nomadic groups.

During rush hours numerous tourists can be seen here purchasing souvenirs and clicking photographs of this human-made architectural marvel.

The Bund

The Bund is the waterfront area facing the modern skyscrapers of central Shanghai. The old European feel of this area is in stark contrast to the contemporary Pudong skyline over the river. It is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Shanghai.

One can see some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world led by the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower symbolizing Shanghai’s growing pace towards the future. It provides mesmerizing views of both Shanghai’s colonial and contemporary skyline. The bund is delightful at daylight and enchanting by the night inviting tourist and natives alike.

Chinese new year and the Lantern Festival

When you are in China during its New Year everything is worth seeing.

The Chinese New Year, also called Spring Festival, has more than 4,000 years of history. It is the prime annual event for Chinese people. The festival usually falls on a day from January 21st to February 20th in Gregorian calendar. People prepare special meals, decorate streets, give gifts, light up fireworks and millions of lanterns. Commencing from Chinese New Year’s Eve the holiday celebration lasts up to the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first lunar month.

While you still can see numerous things that will leave you awestruck, the above list gives you a glimpse of the past, present, and evolving future of China.There is so much more to be explored in the land of the dragon!

]]>http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-china/feed01950Top 5 Things to See in South Koreahttp://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-south-korea
http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-south-korea#respondThu, 18 Jan 2018 18:33:51 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1946Calm Down, Korea does not always refer to a nuclear bomb. Take a deep breath and do whatever it takes to believe that Southern Part of Korea also has beautiful places to visit like in any other country. For most of you, differentiating between N. Korea and S. Korea might be a herculean task but it’s not that difficult, look for a pro tip in the end. Just Remember here we are talking about South Korea, that part of Korea which is NOT associated with Nuclear bombs and Kim Jong Un.

While One part is expected to be one of the dominating countries in coming years, one of the largest Economies in the world, applauded for its shift from poor to a rich country in less than a generation The North is still trying to strike Washington with a nuclear Bomb.

Here are the Top 5 Places to Visit in South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace((경복궁) -Revisiting History

“Gyeongbokgung” literally translating to a place where the new king can enjoy the prosperity and blessings. It was the first palace built during the Joseon Dynasty. The palace is unique for its vast area and harmony of buildings and is the only palace to have all four major gates still remaining to this day.

The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony will mesmerize you and make you fall in love with this palace even before entering the palace. The premises were once destroyed by fire during the Imjin War (Japanese Invasions, 1592-1598).Within the palace grounds, you can see a multitude of restored buildings each serving a unique purpose.

N Seoul Tower(남산서울타워) – Fall in Love

Only after visiting N Seoul Tower at least once, you can call your trip to Seoul, South Korea to be complete. The tower was first established as a broadcast tower to send out TV and radio signals in 1969 but has gradually become one of the top places to visit in Seoul. Standing at a height of 480m above sea level. The panoramic view at night from the tower is a delight to watch. For Hallyu fans, the tower is a must-visit attraction, having been featured in dramas like “My Love From the Star (2013)” and “Legend of the Blue Sea (2016).”

Namiseom Island (남이섬 종합휴양지)- You love Peace ?

An hour drive from Seoul towards Chuncheon will lead you to a hilltop, sorry, an island. Initially, an hilltop later became an island after the construction of Cheongpyeong Dam.

This half-moon shaped Island is a perfect place for couples and families. One may be surprised to note that no telephone wires are not visible on this island as all are underground to ensure the beauty of the island remains intact.

Lotte World (롯데월드)- Roller Coaster Ride ?

If you are looking for a fun place to spend a whole day, check out Lotte World! This amusement park is open all year round, filled with dynamic events and performances. The park is largely divided into two areas: Adventure located indoors, and the outdoor section of Magic Island. The adventure includes a plethora of attractions, including a carousel, Spanish pirate ship, flume ride and more, while Magic Island has big thrill rides like the Gyro Drop and Gyro Spin. Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky and Lotte World Shopping Mall are located nearby so make sure to take a look around while you’re here.

Bukchon Hanok Village(북촌한옥마을)- The Hidden Gem

Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional houses, called “hanok”, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The name Bukchon, which literally translates to “northern village,” came about as the neighborhood lies north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants and tea houses, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.

Apart from these five must visits there are many more such places. N. Korea has something in store for everybody – children, couples and the elderly. The history and the division of North and South Korea across the 38th Parallel is also an interesting read. Apart from these beautiful places, there is a high probability that the phone you are using or the car you are driving is designed/manufactured by our distant friend. South Korea is also a home to companies Like Samsung and Hyundai.

So, while telling your friends about this article how do remember which part of Korea it is?

Just Remember South Korea has Samsung and North Korea has Nuclear Bomb.

]]>http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-south-korea/feed0194610 Countries Where You Can Take A Ride Along With Indian Driving Licencehttp://bongyatra.com/10-countries-where-you-can-take-a-ride-along-with-indian-driving-licence
http://bongyatra.com/10-countries-where-you-can-take-a-ride-along-with-indian-driving-licence#respondFri, 05 Jan 2018 20:40:28 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1884Who doesn’t wish to go out of India and enjoy just like every second Bollywood film portrays. A place, just like in ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ casted Raj and simran, where they are enjoying a road trip in Europe. Well, I can’t promise you a road trip with exactly the same story but yes you can make your own story and that too a brilliant one without hitting your pocket hard. This list covers all the countries that permit to drive in with Indian licence from Aussie, United Kingdom to United States of America. Here, you go with the ten countries where your home country’s licence, the Indian licence will help you to take a ride over there. So, pack your bag to make the best out of your trip.

1. Germany

Source: Nations Online Project

You need to drive Right lane here. The Indian driving licence is accepted but it’s advisable that you carry International Driving Permit (IDP), though it’s not mandatory but then also. As it consist of translated information of your documents which will help the locals to scrutinize your credentials easily.

2. Switzerland

Source: BBC

Now you can fulfill your dreams to explore all the high peaks of the Alps and roads in Switzerland for up to a year if you have a valid Indian licence. Right lane driving works here. Just grab the steering, and travel the country at its best.

3. Singapore

Source: Singapore-guide

To explore this sovereign city-state, if you are going for short period of time then you don’t need a separate licence to drive in. But still it’s advisable to get in touch with the RTO and get a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry an official translation of your driving licence if it’s not in English with a valid Indian licence. You have to drive left lane.

4. Australia

Source: About Australia

To travel Australia you need to do left lane driving. You can take a ride with your valid Indian licence but the Northern territory of Australia bans the Indian tourist to do so. Here, you cannot choose your wished vehicle, even if you get permission to drive. You can only drive the vehicles which are stated in the licence.

5.Great Britain

Source: The Telegraph

Great Britain is trio of Scotland, Wales and England. The trio will permit you to drive in for one year with a valid Indian licence. The only issue you will face here is that you can drive in only those cars which are mentioned in your licence. And you need to do left lane driving.

6.New Zealand

Source: Pickyourtrail Blog

You can stay in kiwi land for one year. If your licence is printed in English then, it’s good news but if not then head to an authorized translator and get a translation of your licence in English. After this, you need to get a stamp by New Zealand Transport Agency on your licence. Get ready to explore New Zealand for a year with left lane driving.

7.United States of America

Source: City Journal

Consisting fifty states, at first you need to inquire from right authority. Every state has different norm. In some states, your translated licence works with a stamp and in some they ask for International Driving Permit (IDP). What you need to do is to contact RTO for IDP. And another thing you need to do is inquire the vehicle department of the state you are visiting about the licence.

8.Hong Kong

Source: Wikitravel

Left lane driving is done here. Hong Kong allows you to drive in for twelve months continuously . But as others, you need to get your licence translated if not in English, by any authorized authority. And you can carry your International Driving Permit (IDP) for the same.

9.Malaysia

Source: Malaysia travel

Malaysia also practices left lane driving. If your driving licence is not printed in English then you need to get an authorized translation from the Indian embassy based in Malaysia in English or Malay language. This will make things easy for them when they will ask you about your information. Also, for an alternate purpose you can carry your IDP.

10.Sweden

Source: Business Insider Nordic

Sweden practices right lane driving. Sweden allows you to drive in for twelve months but if your licence is not in English, Swedish, Danish, German, French, and Norwegian language then you need to get it translated. The translation in any of the above languages will help them to fetch your information in much better way. Along with the translated version you need to carry a photograph of yours or any ID proof where your photo is there.

So, these were all about the countries where you can drive in with your Indian licence and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Driving on the roads of foreign country with your Indian licence, brings a feeling of home in a foreign country. Isn’t it? To experience it, you need to go over there at first. So, what are you waiting for. Driving with Indian licence will not hit your pocket much. Enjoy!

]]>http://bongyatra.com/10-countries-where-you-can-take-a-ride-along-with-indian-driving-licence/feed01884Your Guide To Travel Bangkokhttp://bongyatra.com/your-guide-to-travel-bangkok
http://bongyatra.com/your-guide-to-travel-bangkok#respondSun, 19 Nov 2017 14:52:21 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1705Bangkok is probably a less expensive place and you can easily visit the beautiful city even on a lesser budget. The city not only has a rich culture but also has vibrant vibes all around. You will love the food that this place offers. Though it is much advanced and is also known a highly-developed metropolis, still is primarily known for its rich cultural heritage. You will surely want to extend your vacations to this place once you reach there. If you haven’t been to Bangkok before, your personal travel guide is here with an itinerary for you, so that you can travel to this enchanting city within your budget.

When to visit?

If you want to explore the city, then it is better that you visit the place between November to February as during this time the climate remains cool and pleasant. The weather during summers is really hot and humidity won’t allow you to enjoy your trip, so make sure you plan your trip during the winter months. If you visit during the summer season then you might not want to step out of your hotel rooms in the scorching sunlight while visiting during the rainy season will force you to stay within your hotel rooms, as the city experiences heavy downpour every year. Inappropriate weather can actually disrupt your plans.

How to reach?

Bangkok is one city that is highly connected to the rest of the world. If you live in a metro city then there are high chances that you can get a direct flight to the city. However, if you live in a town or a small city where an airport is not available, then visit New Delhi first and from there take your flight to Bangkok. If you manage to book New Delhi to Bangkok flights tickets a few months early, then you can save quite a lot on your traveling expenses.

Where to stay?

You can find numerous staying options in the city. If you have a predefined budget and want to stay in a place that offers a decent staying experience within your budget, then you should look out for accommodations at Khao San Road and Silom Road. By arranging for an accommodation in the former lane, you can also get access to cheap traditional food, as the road is full of local food vendors and the entire ambiance is sure to fill you with positive vibes. But you will not find any railway station around this place. Silom road, on the other hand, is known to be the financial district of Bangkok. You can find budget hotels in this area and the best part is there is a railway station that connects the place with the rest of the city. So you can easily travel to various parts of the city without much hassle.

Currency and Money Exchange

Thai Baht is the official currency of Bangkok, so make sure that you exchange your currency into Thai Baht. You will find numerous money exchange institutions but they charge a higher amount on the conversion. It is better to take help of a banking institution in this regard. Even bank institutions will charge a fee on the conversion and each ATM withdrawal in Bangkok might cost you a hefty amount. So make sure that you withdraw enough money in one go.

Once you reach the place, you can easily explore the vibrant city. The marketplace of the city is a must visit, as you can get a lot of trendy clothes at affordable prices. So make sure that you book your New Delhi to Bangkok flights tickets at the earliest and explore the city.

]]>http://bongyatra.com/your-guide-to-travel-bangkok/feed017055 Best Places to Visit in Jordanhttp://bongyatra.com/5-best-places-to-visit-in-jordan
http://bongyatra.com/5-best-places-to-visit-in-jordan#respondWed, 01 Nov 2017 15:57:46 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1653Jordan is an offbeat destination of the Middle East with unique natural features, beautiful deserts and wonderful archaeological sites that attracts tourist from all the corners of the world. The best places that you must never miss if you visit Jordan are:

Petra: The geological structure and the wonderful rock cut architect of this place have made it one of the main attractions of Jordan. As a geological feature, the sandstone cliffs sculpted by wind and water over millennia are awesome: with a grandeur and range of colors worth a visit in themselves. It is awe inspiring how vast the whole Petra complex is. You will never see any place like this in the world. Numerous tombs, amphitheater, a steep uphill walk, the monastery all add to the beauty of this place. The place is magnificent and apparently, too many people only go as far as the first and most well-known site, The Treasury.

Dead Sea: It is the lowest point of the earth which is an attraction in itself. If you are in Israel, please do not miss this. The aquamarine color of the sea and the fading emeralds will mesmerize you. The best part of this place is that it has hyper-saline water which will make you float without any support. The feeling of buoyancy is unbelievable. It’s incredible to see how the salt accumulates on the rocks of the shoreline. The edges of the sea have rocks coated in bubbles of salt, and the water is so salty that you have to be careful not to get it in your eyes or mouth. It has rich mineral mud which is used for therapeutic treatments. The salt crusted coast and the beautiful sea is enough to drive you crazy.

Wadi Rum: Jordan’s desert landscape, Wadi Rum, is located on the east of the Rift Valley. You really must try to include this on any tour of Jordan. The high cliffs, narrow canyons, natural caverns and the sandstone arches make this place one of the most beautiful places on earth. The solitude is a big part of the charm. If you spend a night over here you will get the best experience of sleeping on a mattress under the wide blue sky and looking at the shooting stars and you will also get the opportunity to witness the changing colors of the skies and believe me watching the night sky in a cold desert is an entirely different experience. Beautiful red colors in the desert and very friendly Bedouin’s can make an awesome day in Wadi Rum. This dessert is often called ‘unearthly’ because the landscape looks like to be on the Moon or Mars.

Mount Nebo: Mount Nebo is considered to be the place where God showed the promised land to Moses, and it is supposedly where he is buried. The drive up to Mount Nebo is a real experience. It is windy and full of twists and turns. Once you get to Mount Nebo, you pay to enter the site and see the great biblical artifacts. The view from the top is incredible. The summit of this mountain commands spectacular views over the Dead Sea to the West Bank and Jerusalem.

Dana Biosphere Reserve: It is the largest natural reserve of Jordan. You can enjoy a good walk on a breezy day over here. It is a beautiful place with heritage and biodiversity and the biosphere here dramatically changes from sandstone to limestone granite and the ecosystem changes from oak and juniper woodlands to sandy desert. You will also find species like Syrian Wolf, Syrian Wolf, spiny-tailed lizard and different kinds of birds over here.

Jordan is an amazing country with loads to offer, including floating in the Dead Sea, visiting historic castles and ruins including Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, and much more. In what other country, can you visit one of the seven wonders of the world, visit Roman ruins,visit a crusader castle, float in a sea, take a jeep ride through a desert, camp in a tent, witness such beautiful and diverse landscapes and be among some of the most friendly and welcoming people in the world. A trip here should definitely be on the bucket list of any traveler looking for some exotic experience.

]]>http://bongyatra.com/5-best-places-to-visit-in-jordan/feed01653Top 5 Things to See in Bangladeshhttp://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-bangladesh
http://bongyatra.com/top-5-things-to-see-in-bangladesh#respondTue, 17 Oct 2017 16:20:18 +0000http://bongyatra.com/?p=1641When people talk of tourist destinations, Bangladesh is not usually one of them. However, Bangladesh is greatly underestimated in terms of a potential tourist spot. Not only is the country rich in natural beauty, but it has several monuments worth taking a look at as well. Here are five tourist spots you should definitely visit while on vacation to that country:

Cox Bazar

It is one of the most famous tourist destinations of Bangladesh. Cox Bazar is town located by the sea and has a 125 km stretch of sandy beach; which is the longest in Bangladesh. Other than that there is a beautiful Buddhist Monastery known as Agenda Khyang where tourists flock to while visiting Chittagong. If you like sea-sides, this one is a good bet and if you wish to experience and soak in Buddhist culture you can also visit Ramu, a Buddhist village which lies very close to the monastery itself.

St. Martin:

St. Martin is a relic of the British Colonization. It is a small, exquisite coral island located close to Chhera Island. It is also the only one of its kind in Bangladesh. Exotic locales, flaming sunsets are some of the main attractions here. Many adventure sports such as scuba diving and snorkeling are also available for the amusement of those of an adventurous bent of mind.

Sundarban:

Sundarbans are halophytic mangrove forests predominated by “Sundari” trees. The Sundarbans are a World Heritage Site and under the protection of UNESCO. If you want a bit of a thrill then we would suggest a visit to the Sunderbans. They are home to the Royal Bengal tiger and a plethora of all kinds of flora and fauna. They are the pride of Bangladesh.

Rangamati:

Known as the “Lake City” of Bangladesh it is a place of amazing beauty that truly lives up to the moniker. It has quite a bit of greenery which is soothing to the eye and also has the Kaptai Lake which is a favorite among tourists. Other than that there is the Rangamati town itself and the Hanging bridge which is also popular with tourists.

Dhaka:

What’s a vacation without a trip to the capital? Dhaka is the nerve center of Bangladesh economically or culturally. The city is a very lively day or night and has a large population of its own. There are several attractions to visit or you could just have a nice hotel vacation. The War Museum, Shahid Minar, Pink Palace, American Church of Holy Resurrection, Lalbagh Fort, Dharmajika Buddhist Monastery, Manyamati Ruins are all hot favorites with the tourists.

Bangladesh may be classed as a developing country but it is still a breathtakingly beautiful country with greenery all around and rivers and seasides of its own. There are several other spots, in fact way too many to put into a single article. Their cuisine too is a culinary adventure on it’s own. So if you’re planning another vacation we would advise taking Bangladesh into consideration.